November 17, 2015

With credit card becoming the most preferred mode of payment these days, phishing scams have also risen massively. Phishing is a form of hacking attack wherein cyber criminals contact the users in the guise of legitimate and credible companies to extract their credit card information. Once the details are obtained, the cyber criminals use it for malicious purposes.

Here are some of the common ways through which credit card phishing scams are carried out:

  • Fake Emails: Phishing attacks usually involve fake emails that create a sense of urgency or require the user to visit certain website immediately. These emails usually have a form to fill personal information, including credit card number or bank account details.
  • Malware Installed On Computer: The cyber criminals may download and install malware on the user’s computer through malicious advertizements, pop-ups, email attachments or simply by visiting a spam website. Once your computer is infected, the malware will steal your credit card information and send it to the hacker whenever you make an online transaction.
  • Spam Links: The user may receive a spoofed email with an embedded link to a website that appears to be legitimate. These websites usually requires confirmation of the user’s credit card number, expiration date and security code.
  • Fake Phone Calls: The hackers may also make a forged phone call impersonating a known credit card company or bank customer service executive and ask the user to verify his credit card details.

Tips To Protect Against Credit Card Phishing Scams:

  • Install and frequently update the anti-virus software, spam filter and spyware remover on your computer.
  • Do not share your credit card details with anyone and choose a strong as well as lengthy password for all online accounts.
  • Never use public computer systems or Wi-Fi networks for online banking or shopping.
  • Even if you receive a legitimate email with an embedded URL, do not click on the link. Instead, manually type in the website address in your browser to visit a genuine site.
  • Install software and applications only from credible sources.
  • Regularly check your credit card statements and if you find any suspicious purchases, immediately bring it to the notice of your bank.
  • Use zero liability cards as far as possible to avoid being accountable for unauthorized transactions ion your credit card.
  • Verify a website’s security by confirming that its URL starts with ‘https’ instead of ‘http’.

For more information on protection from credit card phishing scams, feel free to contact Centex Technologies at (855) 375 – 9654.